Manga Museum Tokiwasō: a journey into Mangaka history

Discover Manga Museum Tokiwasō, a unique place that celebrates the cultural heritage of the great masters of manga. Located in Tokyo’s Toshima district, this municipal museum offers a total immersion in the life and work of the mangakas who marked the history of this art.

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Tokiwasō’s legendary legacy

Tokiwasō, a modest apartment building located in Shiinamachi (currently Minami-Nagasaki), has seen many great names of contemporary manga spend the young years. Among them are Osamu Tezuka, known as the “God of Manga”, and other iconic figures such as Fujio Akatsuka, Fujiko Fujio and Shotaro Ishinomori.

Although the original building was demolished in 1982, its memory was revived in July 2020 with the opening of this completely renovated museum. Its objective is clear: to preserve and transmit to future generations the history and essence of manga, while providing a window on the daily life of these visionary artists.

A dive into the daily life of mangakas

As soon as you cross the entrance of the museum, you are transported in a faithful reconstruction of the Tokiwasō building of the 1950s-1960s, about ten years after its construction.

The climbing stairs and the common kitchen: The authentic atmosphere of the place is carefully recreated. The detailed details, such as the tasks on the walls or a bowl of half-eaten ramen, give you the impression that the inhabitants have just left the place.
Mangaka roomsThe works of George Yamauchi, Hideko Mizuno and Tokuo Yokota were reproduced identically. These spaces, with an area of 4 and a half tatamis, show the creation tools, manuscripts and everyday objects, providing a valuable insight into the life of the mangakas at that time.

Exhibition spaces

The ground floor of the museum offers two main exhibition spaces:

Manga salonA collection of works signed by the mangaka associated with Tokiwasō is highlighted. You will discover rare publications and original editions that trace the evolution of manga.
The thematic exhibition roomIt presents temporary exhibitions that explore specific aspects of manga and its influence on Japanese culture.

A walk in the Tokiwasō district

The museum visit does not stop at its walls. Within walking distance, several points of interest related to Tokiwasō enrich the experience:

Tokiwasō Street Rest House: A friendly space dedicated to curious visitors to learn more about manga.
Tokiwasō Manga Library: An ideal place to browse iconic manga and deepen your knowledge.
Monuments scattered in the neighborhoodThese works pay tribute to the mangakas who contributed to the fame of Tokiwasō.

Practical information to plan your visit

Opening hoursFrom 10am to 6pm, with one last entry at 5.30pm. Closed on Mondays (or next day in case of a holiday) and during the New Year.
Access:
- Ochiai-Minami-Nagasaki train station (line Toei
- Higashi-Nagasaki train station (Seibu-Ikebukuro line), south exit, 10 minutes walk away.
Entry price: Variables according to the exhibitions and projections.
Facilities: The museum is equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility with accessible elevators, adapted toilets, and wheelchairs.

Tips for making the most of your visit

Allow time to explore the neighborhood: Points of interest around the museum complete the experience and allow a deeper immersion in this universe.
Deepen your discovery of manga: Familiarize yourself with the works of the mangakas who inhabited Tokiwasō before your visit. This will enrich your understanding of exhibitions.
Wear comfortable shoes: Walks in the neighborhood and the climbing stairs of the museum can be demanding.
Visit with family or friends: The immersive aspect of the museum pleases both enthusiasts and novices of manga.

The Manga Tokiwasō Museum is much more than just an exhibition venue. It is a journey through time that plunges you into the heart of manga history and the life of artists who revolutionized this art. An essential step for all lovers of Japanese culture.

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